"It's not how much money you make, but how much money you keep, how hard it works for you, and how many generations you keep it for.” - Robert Kiyosaki

Hey Everyone,

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Ridgeline Rundown!

Too many veterans are missing out on a powerful VA loan benefit—one that could save thousands and make homeownership far more accessible. We’re breaking it down in simple terms this week.

Also inside: a quick update on what’s new in business, one can’t-miss event in Colorado, and important headlines from the military world that might impact you or someone you know.

Let’s get into it 👇

As always, I’m here to guide you with honest advice, real strategies, and a personalized approach that makes a difference. Have questions? Let’s chat and build a plan that works for you.

Mortgage Minute

Mortgage rates nudged slightly higher today after dipping to start the week. Most top-tier 30-year fixed rates remain just under 7%. There were no major economic reports driving the move—just some mild pressure ahead of a 5-year Treasury auction. Bigger rate swings are possible later this week as key data rolls in.

The Insider’s Guide to Real Estate | Tips

Many Veterans Don’t Know about This VA Home Loan Benefit

For 80 years, Veterans Affairs (VA) home loans have helped countless Veterans buy a home. But even though a lot of Veterans have access to this powerful program, the majority don't know about one of its core benefits.

According to a report from Veterans United only 3 in 10 Veterans are aware they may be able to buy a home with no down payment with a VA loan (see visual below):

That means 7 out of every 10 Veterans could be missing out on a key homebuying advantage.

That’s why it’s so important for Veterans, and anyone who cares about a Veteran, to be aware of this program. As Veterans United explains, VA home loans:

The Benefits of VA Home Loans

These loans are designed to make buying a home more achievable for those who have served. And, by extension, they also give their families the opportunity to plant roots and build equity in a home of their own. Here are some of the biggest advantages for this type of loan according to the Department of Veterans Affairs:

• Options for No Down Payment: One of the biggest perks is that many Veterans can buy a home with no down payment at all.

• Limited Closing Costs: With VA loans, there are limits on the types of closing costs Veterans have to pay. This helps keep more money in your pocket when you’re finalizing your purchase.

• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike many other loan types, VA loans don’t require PMI, even with lower down payments. This means lower monthly payments, which can add up to big savings over time.

If you want to learn more, your best resource for all the options and advantages of VA loans is your team of expert real estate professionals, including a local agent and a trusted lender.

Bottom Line

VA home loans offer life-changing assistance, and a trusted lender and agent can help make sure you understand the details and are ready to move forward with a solid plan.

Do you know if you’re eligible for a VA home loan? Talk to a trusted lender who can help you see if you’d qualify.

Colorado Springs Social Scene

Military News and Updates

Trump announces two new national holidays, including one on Veterans Day

President Donald Trump on Monday said he is establishing two new national holidays, one of which will fall on a date already designated as Veterans Day.

The holidays, Trump explained on Truth Social, are meant to commemorate the end of World Wars I and II, landing on November 11 and May 8, respectively.

In the post, Trump reiterated his view that the U.S. should be celebrating its military victories, as some other countries do.

“We won two World Wars, but we never took credit for it — Everyone else does!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “All over the World, the Allies are celebrating the Victory we had in World War II. The only Country that doesn’t celebrate is the United States of America, and the Victory was only accomplished because of us.”

Feel free to reach out with any real estate questions—I’m here to help, no matter the state!

Referrals are the biggest compliment, so send anyone my way. Until next time!